Google Maps Switches to Tele Atlas

Sep

19

2008

We noted a couple of weeks ago that Google had signed a 5 year deal with Tele Atlas to provide digital maps for various Google applications. Google Earth, and the Google Maps API had previously used Tele Atlas data, so the deal wasn’t a big deal by itself. However, I noticed today that at least in the areas of the USA I’ve checked, Google is now also using Tele Atlas data for the Google Maps website (maps.google.com) that previously used NAVTEQ data.

6 Responses

Tim,

I seem to recall another recent story where TomTom purchased Tele-Atlas — can’t recall where I saw it, but I think it was on your site somewhere. I wonder if a purchase of Tyre might soon be in the cards?

Wendell - September 20th, 2008

Correct, TomTom has purchased Tele Atlas.

Tim - September 22nd, 2008

Navteq has a gap on the road next to my street. My Garmin makes me go around all the time. Whereas Tele-Atlas has it correct. I wish Garmin usd Tele-Atlas.

Jeff - October 4th, 2008

Ah, that explains why both TomTom and, now, google maps fail to locate streets in my neighborhood. As far as I know, those are the only two providers who screw up directions to my house. I’d be curious to know if there are others. I’ve been warning TomTom users not to use my address, and now I have to warn against Google, too, to anyone trying to find me. I reported all the errors to Tele Atlas but doubt that will reap any results anytime soon…